David M. Cornell

1934 - 2020

Brig. Gen. David Cornell
August 14, 1934 - December 4, 2020
Lebanon, Illinois - David M. Cornell lived a full and love-filled life! In his 86th year, on December 4, 2020 with his family by his side, he peacefully left his earthly home and walked into the waiting arms of the Lord, his parents Don and Jean, brother Gordon, sister-in-law Betty Jo and many other family members and friends.
This caring and gentle man leaves behind a permanent mark etched on many hearts and will be extremely missed by his wife, the love of his life for 62 years, Lynn, whom he met on a blind date and serenaded with his ukulele; his children, David (Alexa) and Shawn (Elizabeth); his grandson, Ian (Ashley); and great-granddaughter, Luella, who was shear sunshine for him. He will also be greatly missed by his brothers, Don and Jerry (Sharon), many nieces, nephews, and countless friends whom he loved dearly.
Dave was a painter, musician, engineer, craftsman, chef (sometimes), teacher, leader, giver, botanist, birdwatcher, sportsman, builder of airports, and savior of small plants and anything else that needed a little TLC. As a talented illustrator, he accompanied many of his letters, cards, and correspondence with delightful drawings and cartoons that always gave the reader a special experience. He was born in the mountains of Northern California in August of 1934 and grew up hiking and wandering around the surrounding streams and valleys. His interest in painting was part of his earliest memories, and was encouraged by supportive parents. Formal art training began at age 8, and continued through high school. But with college came a redirection of his interest toward civil engineering and a military career.
Dave joined the US Air Force in 1956 as an Airman Second Class (two stripes) and retired 32 years later as a Brigadier General having been promoted twice below the zone two years early each time. His military tours included permanent duty at ten stateside bases and two overseas locations, plus numerous educational and temporary duty assignments. He received Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in civil engineering from the University of Arizona and graduated from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces in Washington, D.C. During his years of service Dave held a variety of assignments, which included communications/electronics and seismic detection of nuclear detonations, munitions management, and civil engineering. In 1981 Dave was assigned to Headquarters Military Airlift Command, Scott Air Force Base as the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS) for Engineering and Services. Then in 1984 he became DCS for Engineering and Services for Headquarters AFLC at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base where he was responsible for the construction of airfields for Saudi Arabia.
Following retirement from military service he worked for several engineering companies in the local area and was the project manager for construction of MidAmerica Airport near Lebanon, Illinois. Dave was also a member of the Lebanon Singers, Lebanon Planning Commission (Chairman), and Lebanon Visitors Center Planning Trio.
In 2000, after 44 years of devoting his time to the military and engineering construction projects, Dave retired. "I reverted to the usual 'retiree activities' of travel, home repair, and yard work… but something was missing." It was his painting. He became a founding member of the Missouri Plein Air Painters Association (MOPAPA) and the Heartland Art Club, and a member of the Gateway East Artists Guild (GEAG). For the next 18 years, he spent almost every Sunday painting outdoors with a continuously expanding circle of friends. His last painting was completed one month before his passing. As much as he loved learning about painting, he loved teaching about it even more. His enthusiasm and encouragement touched and brightened many lives.
Dave will be forever remembered for his generous smile, sparkling eyes, and caring heart. Although our hearts are heavy, we will celebrate his life and find comfort knowing his spirit will always be with us.
In lieu of flowers, if you would like to honor Dave's memory, be kind and helpful to someone, put a smile on their face by giving them one of yours.
A private funeral service will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Those who wish to gather in memory of Dave are welcome to raise a glass with friends and family at a Life Celebration to be announced at a later date.
Meridith Funeral Home, Lebanon, IL.